Soft identification plate and method therefor

ABSTRACT

A license plate assembly includes a backing and a flexible license plate. The flexible license plate includes plural layers, including a licensing-information layer, in which ink is deposited in the form of alphanumeric characters on an underlying one of the plural layers, the alphanumeric characters providing license information. The flexible license plate optionally includes one or more holograms, and/or watermarks, and/or QR-codes. The flexible license plate is disposed on the backing, which extends beyond the perimeter of the flexible license plate, defining a marginal region. In some embodiments, plural indices are disposed in the marginal region to facilitate alignment of flexible license plate during installation thereof on a motor vehicle.

STATEMENT OF RELATED CASES

This case claims priority to U.S. Pat. App. Ser. No. 63/120,121 filedDec. 1, 2020, and U.S. Pat. App. Ser. No. 63/208,326 filed Jun. 8, 2021,both of applications are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to identification or registration plates,such as vehicular license plates.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Vehicular license plates are designed to be an easily recognizableidentification plaque for state-registered and off-highway motorvehicles. These license plates are rigid, and are normally constructedfrom painted plastics, painted aluminum, or vinyl-wrapped aluminum. Thelicense plates are externally mounted on a vehicle, at one or both ends,traditionally by mechanical fasteners and a mounting plate, frame, orpedestal. At the front of a vehicle, license plates are traditionallymounted to a vertical, centered, and leading-edge area of the frontbumper. At back, the plates are traditionally mounted to the rearbumper, or the region above it, centered within a recessed section ofthe hatch or trunk-lid.

Although effective for vehicle identification, these plates lack, tovarying degrees, installation flexibility and are devoid oftechnological benefit. Moreover, although most states offer variousversions of the state-approved license plate with the intent ofproviding a degree of personalization or improved aesthetics, when aconventional license plate is mounted at the front of the vehicle, ittypically detracts, sometimes greatly, from overall vehicle aesthetics.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an identification/registration plate, anda manufacturing process for fabricating the plate, that overcome some ofthe costs and drawbacks of the prior art.

The inventors realized that vehicular license plates have remainedvirtually unchanged for over 100 years. For example, the prior artcontinues to use metal alloy or thick plastic materials forlicense-plate manufacturing, requiring large-scale multi-ton machinery,presses, stamps and dies, along with a large labor force. Furthermore,the need to physically screw or bolt a license plate into a vehicle'sbumper or couple a mounting device thereto causes irreversible damage tothe vehicle. Additionally, there is no straightforward way to preventillegal, physical alterations to prior-art license plates, nor is therean intuitive method for preventing illegal removal or repurposingthereof. Moreover, the majority of vehicular license plates aresusceptible to physical alterations in attempt to circumvent state-basedoptical enforcement devices such as photo-enforcement speed zones ortraffic-light intersection photo-capture systems. And traditionalmounting arrangements for the front license plate are often ill-suitedto the sleek look of performance automobiles, and are a bane of manyauto-enthusiast owners of such vehicles.

Methods in accordance with the present teaching address theaforementioned problems by providing a license plate having one of moreof the following features, among others:

-   -   quick, damage-free mounting to a vehicle via an adhesive        substrate, avoiding, in some cases, the need for mounting        hardware;    -   tamper-resistance via optically transparent protective outer        laminating layer;    -   embedded devices for wireless communication;    -   unique branding, security, tracking, identification, and        authentication through the use of hologram and watermarking        features;    -   database retrieval feature via QR codes;    -   improved safety through the use of soft, pliable materials; and    -   improved aesthetics; and    -   theft-deterrence via security scoring features.

Some embodiments in accordance with the present teachings provide avehicular license plate that has nine or fewer layers as a function ofthe features incorporated therein. The vehicular license plate ispliable, adhesive, and may be made to any size specification. Even whenthe plate includes all nine layers, it is quite thin, typically lessthan 1/32 of inch. When applied to a vehicle, the license plate willappear flush on the vehicle's surface, following the natural contoursthereof.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a license-plate assembly, thelicense-plate assembly including:

-   -   a flexible license plate having:    -   (i) a retroreflective film having a first side and a second        side, the first side having a pressure-sensitive adhesive        applied thereto,    -   (ii) a licensing-information layer, the licensing-information        layer consisting of ink, at least some of which ink is deposited        in the form of alphanumeric characters on the second side of the        retroreflective film, the alphanumeric characters providing        vehicle license information, and    -   (iii) a protection layer overlying the licensing-information        layer and retroreflective film, wherein the protection layer        comprises a film that is optically transparent;    -   a backing having a first side and a second side, wherein the        flexible license plate is disposed on the second side of the        backing, the backing extending beyond a perimeter of the        flexible license plate and, in so extending, defining a marginal        region; and    -   plural indices disposed within the marginal region, the indices        being symmetrically spaced about respective horizontal and        vertical center points of the flexible license plate, the        indices facilitating alignment of the flexible license plate        during installation thereof on a motor vehicle.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a license-plate assemblycomprising a flexible license plate, the flexible license plate havingplural layers, including a licensing-information layer, thelicensing-information layer consisting of ink, at least some of whichink is deposited in the form of alphanumeric characters on an underlyingone of the plural layers, the alphanumeric characters providing licenseinformation; and a backing, wherein the flexible license plate isdisposed on the backing, the backing extending beyond a perimeter of theflexible license plate and, in so extending, defining a marginal region,wherein plural indices are disposed within the marginal region, theindices being symmetrically spaced about respective horizontal andvertical center points of the flexible license plate, the indicesfacilitating alignment of the flexible license plate during installationthereof on a motor vehicle.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a method for making alicense-plate assembly, the method comprising providing aretroreflective film disposed on a backing; printing alphanumericcharacters within a first rectangular region of the retroreflectivefilm, the alphanumeric characters providing vehicle license information;printing indices within a second region of the retroreflective film,wherein second region surrounds the first region; and disposing anoptically transparent protection layer over the licensing-informationlayer and retroreflective film.

Summarizing, a license-plate assembly, as depicted and described,comprises: (i) a backing, and (ii) a flexible license plate, the licenseplate having a retroreflective layer, a licensing-information layerdisposed on the retroreflective layer, and a protection layer.Embodiments of the license-plate assembly may further comprise at leastone of the following features, in any (non-conflicting) combination,among other features disclosed herein:

-   -   Alignment indices disposed in a marginal regional surrounding        the flexible license plate,    -   Badging appearing between the alignment indices, the badging        including one or more of branding, use instructions, regulatory        information, etc.;    -   Badging disposed on a back surface of the backing;    -   A supplemental information layer including        supplemental-information bearing features, including one or more        holograms, and/or one or more watermarks, and/or one or more QR        codes;    -   A communications layer including one or more wireless        communication devices;    -   One or more anti-alteration/barrier layers, used to detect        attempted alterations to the supplemental-information bearing        features, and/or to create visual, mechanical and/or electrical        barriers between various layers of the flexible license plate;    -   Security scoring;    -   A mounting layer with a surface treatment that increases the        static coefficient of friction between the mounting layer and a        dashboard of a car; and    -   A plate holder for mounting the flexible license plate on        certain regions of a vehicle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B depict a license plate in accordance with theillustrative embodiment of the present invention adhered to the frontand rear of an automobile, respectively.

FIG. 2A depicts a license-plate assembly in accordance with theillustrative embodiment.

FIG. 2B depicts removal of the license plate from the license-plateassembly.

FIG. 3A depicts an “exploded” view of a license-plate assembly inaccordance with a first illustrative embodiment, showing a 4-layerversion thereof.

FIG. 3B depicts a front view of the license-plate assembly of FIG. 3A.

FIGS. 4A and 4B depict a further embodiment of the license-plateassembly of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 5A depicts an “exploded” view of a license-plate assembly inaccordance with a second illustrative embodiment, showing a 6-layerversion thereof.

FIG. 5B depicts a front view of the license-plate assembly of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A depicts an “exploded” view of a license-plate assembly inaccordance with a third illustrative embodiment, showing an 8-layerversion thereof.

FIG. 6B depicts a front view of the license-plate assembly of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A depicts an “exploded” view of a license-plate assembly inaccordance with a fourth illustrative embodiment, showing a 9-layerversion thereof.

FIG. 7B depicts a front view of the license-plate assembly of FIG. 7A.

FIGS. 7C-7E depict a front view of respective alternative embodiments ofthe license-plate assembly of FIGS. 7A and 7B.

FIGS. 8A-8C depict manufacturing processes for embodiments of thelicense-plate assembly described herein.

FIG. 9A depicts some steps of a process by which license plate 110 isinstalled on the front of a vehicle.

FIG. 9B depicts the remaining steps of the process of FIG. 9A.

FIGS. 10A-10C depict a plate holder for use with license plate 110 inaccordance with the present teachings.

FIG. 11A through 11I depicts a process by which license plate 110 isinstalled on the back of a vehicle.

FIG. 12A depicts an embodiment of a license plate suitable for dashboardplacement, in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 12B depicts a method for manufacturing the license plate of FIG.12A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference to the “left side” or the “right side” of an article depictedin the accompanying drawings is to be understood as being from the“perspective” of the article, not the viewer. Reference to “up”,“above”, “down”, “below”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “top”, “bottom” or“back” in conjunction with a drawing refers to a viewer's perception ofthese directions when viewing the drawing, unless otherwise specified.

FIG. 1A depicts motor vehicle 100 having license plate 110 in accordancewith the present teachings adhered to central region 104 of front bumper102. FIG. 1B depicts a rear view of motor vehicle 100, with plate 110disposed in central region 108, typically located above the rear bumper.License plate 110 is sufficiently flexible so that it can readilyconform to the contours of a curved surface of motor vehicle 100 towhich it is adhered. In some embodiments, plate 110 is adhered to aplate holder (not depicted; see FIGS. 10A-10C, etc.), which is in turnattached to the rear of the motor vehicle. All states require a licenseplate, such as plate 110, to be mounted at the rear of a motor vehicle;some states require a license plate, such as plate 110, to be mounted atboth the rear and the front.

FIGS. 2A and 2B depict license-plate assembly 240, including plate 110,marginal region 211, and backing 212. In the illustrative embodiment,the backing is a coated paper, such a polyethylene-coated paper,discussed further in conjunction with layer 324 of FIG. 3A. Backing 212protects plate 110 during transport and handling, which includespreventing dirt and debris from coming in contact with the adhesive backsurface of plate 110. Backing 212 is removed during the installation ofplate 110 on a car, and is disposed of thereafter. Other materials, aswill occur to those skilled in the art in view of the present teachings,may suitably be used as backing 212.

Plate 110, which is flexible, comprises plural layers of material;usually a minimum of three to a maximum of seven layers, as describedlater in this specification. The overall thickness of plate assembly 240is typically, but not necessarily, within the range of about 1/64^(th)of an inch (0.4 millimeters) to about 1/32^(nd) of an inch (0.8millimeters). The variation in thickness of plate assembly 240 isprimarily due to the aforementioned possible variation in the number oflayers of material composing plate 110, as well as variation in thethickness of the individual layers. As described later in thisspecification, the variation in the number of layers is a function ofthe features that are included in plate 110.

Referring now to FIG. 2B, for installation on a vehicle, etc., plate 110must be separated from backing 212. The undersurface of the bottommostlayer of plate 110 comprises an adhesive, such as a pressure sensitiveadhesive (PSA), and separation from backing 212 involves peeling backone of the corners of plate 110, and continuing to peel until it is freefrom backing 212.

The installation process is facilitated by the presence of marginalregion 211. During fabrication, one or more cuts are made (depending onthe cutting apparatus) through the various layers composing plate 110,resulting in marginal region 211. Importantly, backing 212 is not cutduring cutting operations. This enables plate 110 to be readily peeledfrom backing 212. Additional details of the manner in which plate 110 isinstalled on the front and back of an automobile are provided later inthis specification in conjunction with FIGS. 9A/9B, and FIGS. 11A-11J,respectively. Furthermore, as described later in this specification(see, e.g., FIGS. 4A and 4B), in some embodiments, alignment indices andother information is provided in marginal region 211.

FIGS. 3A/3B, 5A/5B, 6A/6B, and 7A/7B depict four specific embodiments(i.e., plate 310, plate 510, plate 610, and plate 710) of plate 110,which differ by the number of layers of material (and hence thefunctionality) included in plate 110. Moreover, FIGS. 7A/7B, and FIGS.7C, 7D, and 7E depict several variations of a security feature for usein conjunction with embodiments of the invention. For convenience,reference to “plate 110,” “marginal region 211,” and “plate assembly240” is understood to refer to any and all specific embodiments thereof,unless otherwise indicated.

Turning now to the specifics of several embodiments of plate 110, FIGS.3A and 3B depict respective “expanded” and front views of license-plateassembly 340 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.License-plate assembly 340 includes four flexible layers, which includesbacking 212 and three layers 324, 326, and 328 that collectively formplate 310. As described further below, layers 324, 326, and 328 are cut,thereby creating marginal region 311 (which includes portions of allthree of those layers).

Layer 324 is a retroreflective, vinyl-based film, including a pressuresensitive adhesive, that is disposed on polyethylene-coated paper.Although layer 212 is depicted as a separate layer, in the illustrativeembodiment, it is actually the polyethylene-coated paper portion oflayer 324. Materials suitable for use as layer 324 (including backing212) include, without limitation, Scotchlite™ brand reflective film,commercially available from 3M company. Layer 324, which is of coursepliable, imbues plate 310 with reflective properties.

Layer 326, which is referred to as a “licensing-information layer,” isan ink printing layer; that is, this layer is itself the ink that isdirectly applied to layer 324. The ink that is embodied aslicensing-information layer 326 provides the art work and alphanumericcharacters of plate 310. In addition to creating alphanumericcharacters, etc., ink is additionally applied to marginal region 325 oflayer 324. The ink applied in marginal region 325 provides alignmentindices for installation operations, as well as other information, asdescribed in further detail in conjunction with FIGS. 4A and 4B.

Inks serving as licensing-information layer 326 are preferablyformulated for ultra-violet (UV) rejection, fade resistance, colorretention, pliability retention, and crack-resistance. The ink, which istypically a solvent-based ink, is a combination of a carrier fluid,pigment, and resin, and is selected for desired color, graphical, andenvironmental requirements. Licensing-information layer 326 is typicallyapplied using large-scale digital printing machines. Ink suitable foruse as layer 326 includes, for example and without limitation,UltraChrome® GS3 solvent ink, commercially available in a variety ofcolors from Epson® and 3M™ companies. It is notable that ink used forthis layer is not a UV-curable ink. The inventors have found that theperformance characteristics of solvent inks are superior than UV-curableinks for the purposes of layer 326. However, UV-curable inks are used insome embodiments of other layers having other purposes than layer 326,such as certain layers present in the embodiments of plates 510, 610,and 710 described later in this specification.

Protection layer 328 is the topmost layer of plate 310, and is appliedover licensing-information layer 326. Layer 328 is an opticallytransparent (in at least visible wavelengths), hydrophobic,weatherproof, UV-resistant film that encapsulates underlying layers 326and 324 of plate 310, creating a permanent seal. In various embodiments,protection layer 328 can have a gloss finish, a satin finish, or a mattefinish. Layer 328 may vary in thickness based on application-specificconsiderations, and/or desired flexibility or handling properties, butis typically in the range of 1 to 4 mils (0.025 to 0.10 mm). Materialssuitable for use as protection layer 328 include, without limitation,Scotchcal™ brand adhesive vinyl film, which is commercially availablefrom 3M™ Company.

The various layers of nascent plate 310 are positioned directly over thepreceding layer(s); that is, the perimeters of the various layers align(with the exception of layer 326; ink is not necessarily printed overthe full extent of underlying layer 324.) The assemblage of layers isplaced in a cutting device, such as a digitally-controlledplotter/cutter, and layers 328, 326, and 324 (but not the backing 212)are cut such that marginal region 311 results. Marginal region 311 isthe specific embodiment of marginal region 211 (FIG. 2B) for plateassembly 340. For example, the plural layers are cut along right andleft cut lines C1 and C2, as well as along cut lines (not depicted)sited near the lower and upper edges of the assemblage of layers. Theresult of this cutting operation is license-plate assembly 340, asdepicted in FIG. 3B. As depicted in these figures, backing 212 remainsuncut to facilitate removal of plate 310 at the time of plateinstallation on a vehicle.

Additional details about the fabrication of various embodiments of plate110 (e.g., plates 310, 510, 610, 710, etc.) are provided in conjunctionwith FIGS. 8A-8C.

FIGS. 4A and 4B depict the aforementioned alignment indices and otherinformation that is included on some embodiments of a license-plateassembly in accordance with the present teachings.

FIG. 4A depicts a front view of license-plate assembly 340, sans plate310. Backing 212 is visible within the perimeter defined by the insideedge of marginal region 311. Marginal region 311 extends to perimeter ofunderlying backing 212 (see FIG. 4B); its inner perimeter is essentiallyequivalent to the outer perimeter of plate 310; the inner perimeterfalls just to the outside of the location of cut line(s), previouslydiscussed. In some embodiments, marginal region 311 has a width of about½ inch on each side. Since it remains uncut, backing 212 will be about 1inch larger in both width and height than plate 310. For example, for aUnited States automotive license plate measuring 12 inches wide and 6inches in height, backing 212 would have dimensions of about 13 inchesin width and 7 inches in height.

Plural indices 416 appear on marginal region 311. As previouslydiscussed, these indices are printed on layer 324 of license-plateassembly 340. Indices 416 facilitate visual alignment of plate 310during the installation process (see, e.g., FIGS. 9A and 9B, etc.). Inthe illustrative embodiment, indices 416 are displayed in equalquantities and with symmetrical spacing from the respective horizontaland vertical center points of license-plate assembly 340. In theillustrative embodiment, marginal region 311 includes twenty indices,five per side, although the number of indices can vary based on designobjectives and/or plate size.

Branding 418, instructions 420, other information 422 (e.g., regulatoryinformation, etc.), hereinafter collectively referenced as “badging,”can be located at arbitrary locations between indices 416.

FIG. 4B depicts back surface of backing 212. As desired, in addition toappearing on marginal region 311, badging can also or alternativelyappear on back surface of backing 212. As described in further detaillater in this specification, any badging that appears on the backsurface of backing 212 is typically printed thereon before assemblingthe various layers composing plate 310. As previously noted, indices andbadging are printed on layer 324 at the appropriate time as the variouslayers of any embodiment of plate 110 (e.g., plate 310, etc.) is beingassembled. It is to be understood that although the printing of indices416 and badging is illustrated for license-plate assembly 340, it isapplicable to all embodiments of license-plate assembly (i.e.,applicable to the generic “license-plate assembly 240” and the generic“plate 110”).

FIGS. 5A and 5B depict respective “expanded” and front views oflicense-plate assembly 540 in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. License-plate assembly 540 includes the four flexible layersof license-plate assembly 340, as well as two additional layers 530 and532. The two additional layers 530 and 532 are sandwiched between toplayer 328 and layer 326, the ink-printing layer.

Layer 530 is a “supplemental-information layer” that includessupplemental-information-bearing features. These features include one ormore holograms, and/or one or more watermarks, and/or one or more QRcodes which, in the illustrative embodiment, are disposed on layer 326.In some alternative embodiments, supplemental-information layer 530 isdisposed on layer 324. The choice of the immediately underlying layer isa function of graphical design requirements.

Supplemental-information layer 530 provides any one or more of a varietyof functions, including, without limitation:

-   -   use as a security feature or authentication feature (e.g.,        increasing protection against plate theft; with the inclusion of        certain vehicle information, layer 530 can provide        authentication of the primary vehicle identification; preventing        manipulation, fraud, copying, etc.);    -   use as a tracking feature;    -   use as a branding feature (e.g., include a logo or other        information);    -   use as a database retrieval feature;    -   use as an identification feature.        Additionally, because the plate 110 is designed so that, if        desired, it can be removed from a motor vehicle, the various        supplemental-information-bearing features can be used to detect        illicit/improper reuse of plate 110.

As indicated above, in some embodiments, thesupplemental-information-bearing feature is one or more holograms. Insome embodiments, the hologram is created by ink printing on ametallized, high-gloss polyester or vinyl film. Thus, when thesupplemental-information-bearing feature is implemented as a hologram,layer 530 includes the aforementioned metallized film, in addition toink. Metallized film material suitable for use as a sublayer inconjunction with layer 530 include, without limitation, SF 100 filmsavailable from Avery Dennison Company.

Additionally or alternatively, the supplemental-information-bearingfeature can be one or more watermarks via, for example, ink printing tocreate an identifying image or pattern, which becomes visible undervarious lighting conditions.

Additionally or alternatively, supplemental-information-bearing featurecan be one or more QR codes via, for example, ink printing to create thecharacteristic 2D form. The QR code can be used to encode a variety ofinformation, which may or may not be encrypted, including variousauthentication/security/background information concerning the vehiclebearing the plate, the driver, etc.

The holograms, watermarks, and QR codes can be ink printed usingUV-curable ink, such as is commercially available from Mimaki USA, Inc.,and others. Alternatively, the holograms, watermarks, and QR codes canbe ink printed using solvent-based inks, such as UltraChrome® GS3solvent ink, commercially available in a variety of colors from Epson®and 3M™ companies.

As previously mentioned, layer 530 comprises any one or more of theaforementioned supplemental-information-bearing features. To the extentthat supplemental-information layer 530 includes one or more holograms,in addition to watermarks and/or QR codes, the particular region oflayer 530 that embodies the hologram(s) must include the aforementionedmetallized film.

As one skilled in the art will appreciate, the ink embodying thesupplemental-information-bearing features of layer 530 may “bleed” intomarginal region 511. Layer 530 may not be present in some embodiments,and, as a consequence, is an optional feature that is present in somebut not necessarily all embodiments of the invention.

Layer 532, which is referred to as an “anti-alteration/barrier layer,”covers at least some of hologram(s), and/or watermark(s), and/or QRcodes implemented as supplemental-information layer 530 to preventundetected alteration of such features (i.e., to ensure that anyattempted alteration is detectable). In the illustrative embodiment,layer 532 is implemented as a UV-curable ink-printing layer; that is,this layer is UV-curable ink that is directly applied to thesupplemental-information-bearing features of layer 530. In someembodiments, the UV-curable ink, and hence layer 532, is opticallytransparent. UV-curable ink suitable for use as layer 532 may be thesame brand/type of UV-curable ink that is used for layer 530. AlthoughUV-curable ink is the preferred material for use as layer 532, to theextent future developments permit, other types of ink/materials may beused for layer 532.

In some embodiments, layer 532 is deposited at specific areas (e.g.,strategically determined to prevent undetected alteration, etc.) onlayer 530. In some other embodiments, layer 532 is deposited over thefull extent of layer 530 with appropriate bleed.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, layer 532 is used to create, asappropriate, specific visual, mechanical and/or electrical barriers frompreceding or subsequent layers.

The presence of anti-alteration/barrier layer 532 is contingent upondesign and/or performance requirements and is an optional featurepresent in some but not necessarily all embodiments of the invention.However, to the extent that layer 530 is present, layer 532 isadvantageously, but not necessarily present.

Like the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B, layer 328 is theuppermost layer of plate 510 and serves to protect the underlyinglayers.

As in the embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3B, the various layers of nascentplate 510 are positioned directly over one another. The assemblage oflayers is placed in a cutting device, and are cut, resulting inlicense-plate assembly 540, as depicted in FIG. 5B. More particularly,the cutting creates plate 510 and marginal region 511.

FIGS. 6A and 6B depict respective “expanded” and front views oflicense-plate assembly 640 in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. License-plate assembly 640 includes the six flexible layersof license-plate assembly 540, as well as two additional layers 634 and532-2. The two additional layers 634 and 532-2 are sandwiched betweentop layer 328 and layer 532-1 (identified as layer 532 in FIG. 5A).

Layer 634, referred to herein as a “communications layer,” comprises awireless communication device, such as a passive RFID inlay, well knownin the art. A variety of RFID technologies are available, including lowfrequency (LF), high frequency (HF), ultra-high-frequency (UHF), thelatter two having a thickness of about 10 mils (0.25 mm) as implementedin RFID inlays. RFID inlays suitable for use as communications layer 634include, without limitation, DogBone™ brand “dry” (i.e., lackingadhesive backing), passive, UHF RFID inlay, commercially available fromSmartrac N.V. In conjunction with this specification, it is within thecapabilities of those skilled in the art to select an appropriate RFIDinlay or other communications device suitable for use in conjunctionwith embodiments of the invention.

The location of the RFID inlay (or other communications device) relativeto the other layers of nascent plate 610 is a function of the mountedorientation of plate 110, among any other requirements and variables. Insome embodiments, a single RFID inlay is used. In some otherembodiments, plural RFID inlays may be used to create layer 634, whereinsuch plural inlays may utilize the same or differing RFID technologyfrom one another to achieve a specific functionality. The presence ofcommunications layer 634 is contingent upon design and/or performancerequirements and is an optional feature present in some but notnecessarily all embodiments of the invention.

In the illustrative embodiment, layer 532-2 is ananti-alteration/barrier layer like 532-1, implemented as a UV-curableink-printing layer (i.e., this layer is UV-curable ink that is directlyapplied to layer 634). Layer 532-1 provides the same functionality aslayer 532 of plate 510. Layers 532-1 and 532-2 comprise the samematerial as layer 532 of the embodiment of FIGS. 5A and 5B.

In this illustrative embodiment, the UV-curable ink embodied as layer532-2 covers at least some portions of the RFID inlay(s) composing layer634, to prevent tampering. In some other embodiments, layer 532-2 isdeposited on the full extent of layer 634 with appropriate bleed. Inaddition to the aforementioned functionality, layer 532-2 serves tocreate, as appropriate, specific visual, mechanical and/or electricalbarriers from preceding or subsequent layers. The presence of layers 634and 532-2 is contingent upon design and/or performance requirements andare, as such, optional features present in some but not necessarily allembodiments of the invention.

Like the previously described embodiments, layer 328 is the uppermostlayer of plate 610 and serves to protect underlying layers.

Like the previously described embodiments, each layer of nascent plate610 is positioned directly over the preceding layer. The assemblage oflayers is placed in a cutting device and is cut (with the exception thebacking layer), resulting in license-plate assembly 640, as depicted inFIG. 6B. More particularly, the cutting creates plate 610 and marginalregion 611.

The holograms, watermarks, QR codes, and wireless communication devicesshown in the illustrative embodiments appear in certain layers withinplate 110. Depending on the choice of materials for other layers ofplate 110, the location of the hologram, watermark, QR-code, andcommunications-device layers may differ from what is shown. For example,depending on the nature of the ink used, the watermark might need to becloser to the surface of plate 110 for better visibility. And theparticular type of wireless technology employed, and the nature of theantenna design, may dictate that the communication device layer be in adifferent location in plate 110 than depicted in the figures. Moreover,depending on the wireless technology used, additional layers ofmaterials may be added to plate 110 to improve communicationsperformance.

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict respective “expanded” and front views oflicense-plate assembly 740 in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. This embodiment adds two features—security scoring 742 andlayer 738—to license-plate assembly 640. In other embodiments, these twofeatures are combined with other embodiments of the license-plateassembly, such as license-plate assemblies 340 or 540.

Security scoring 742 comprises a plurality of precise incisions, createdfrom a digitally-controlled plotter/cutter or similar device. In theillustrative embodiment, these incisions penetrate all but two layers ofthe finished license-plate assembly 740. Specifically, the bottommostlayer—backing 212—, and topmost layer—layer 738—, are the only twolayers which are not penetrated by the incisions of security scoring742. All other layers are fully penetrated. Where applicable, securityscoring 742 must avoid severing portions of any of the RFID inlays oflayer 634.

Uppermost layer 738 is a “transfer mask,” which is required inconjunction with security scoring 742. Layer 738 holds the variouslayers of plate 110 together while the plate is being installed on avehicle. Layer 738 is optically transparent so that an installer canestablish and maintain visual alignment during the installation process.Upon completion of the installation process (see, e.g., FIGS. 9B, 10B),layer 738 is removed.

As depicted in FIG. 7A, layer 738 is not cut along cut lines C1 and C2like the various layers composing plate 710 (or any other embodiment ofthe plate). As such, it would be difficult, during installation, toremove layer 738 from plate 710 if marginal region 611 were physicallypresent, as in the previously described embodiments of the license plateassembly. As such, for embodiments in which security scoring is used,the marginal region of each layer composing plate 710 is removed priorto placing layer 738 on plate 710.

In various embodiments of security scoring 742, the shape, quantity, andorientation of the incisions may vary. For example, and by way ofillustration, not limitation, four different implementations of securityscoring 742 are depicted in FIGS. 7B through 7E.

In FIG. 7B, security scoring 742 of plate 710 comprises a plurality ofvertically oriented wavy incisions. In FIG. 7C, security scoring 742A ofplate 710A comprises a plurality of horizontally oriented wavyincisions. In FIG. 7D, security scoring 742B of plate 710B comprises aplurality of vertically oriented linear incisions. And security scoring742C of plate 710C of FIG. 7E comprises a plurality of horizontallyoriented linear incisions.

Other implementations of security scoring 742, as will occur to thoseskilled in the art in light of the present specification, may suitablybe used in conjunction with embodiments of the invention. And, in lightof the teachings of this specification, other types of securityfeatures, as will occur to those skilled in the art, may be used inconjunction with, or as an alternative to, security scoring 742.

The presence of security scoring 742 and layer 738 (i.e., the transfermask) are contingent upon design and/or performance requirements and aretherefore optional features present in some but not necessarily allembodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 8A through 8C depict, via flow charts, method 800, which is anembodiment of a method for fabricating plate 110.

Referring now to FIG. 8A, in task S801, the design of license-plateassembly 240 is established. The design covers all aspects of thelicense-plate assembly, including branding, logos, hologram, watermark,QR-code, plate design, security scoring, plate cutout, RFID inlayplacement, sizing, etc. This is typically performed using computersoftware, such as Adobe Illustrator, running on a desk top computer, laptop computer, tablet, or the like.

In task S802, the “basic” plate assembly 340 is fabricated. The basicplate is the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B, although at thispoint in the method, layer 328—the overlying protective layer—is not yetpart of the stack of layers composing the nascent plate assembly. TaskS802 is described in further detail in conjunction with FIG. 8B.

In task S803, any optional features, which are typically but notnecessarily intralayer features (i.e., they are contained within asingle layer, although a second layer may be associated with the featurein the single layer, such as to protect the feature) are added. Suchoptional features include, for example and without limitation, thehologram(s), and/or watermark(s), and/or QR code(s) (and accompanyingfirst anti-alteration/barrier layer of license-plate assembly 540, andthe RFID inlay(s) (and accompanying second anti-alteration/barrierlayer) of license-plate assembly 640.

In task S804, a protective layer (i.e., layer 328) is applied theassemblage of layers composing nascent plate 110. Layer 328 sealsunderlying layers. In task S805, nascent plate 110 is cut to its finalsize. This task, in which all layers other than backing 212 are cut,results in the formation of marginal region 211, as previouslydiscussed.

In task S806, optional security scoring is added, as desired. Ifsecurity scoring is applied to the assemblage of layers, an additionallayer, layer 738—the transfer mask—is applied on layer 328. However,before adding layer 738, the “marginal” area is removed (compare FIG.6A, marginal region 611 with FIG. 7A). Finally, in task S807, nascentlicense-plate assembly 240 is cut to a desired finished size. Theindividual plate assemblies are then packaged and ready for shipping.

FIG. 8B provides an embodiment of a method for accomplishing task S802;that is, preparing the basic plate assembly.

In task S802-1, badging (i.e., branding, instructions, regulatoryinformation) is printed on the back surface of backing 212. Inembodiments in which backing 212 and layer 324 are provided as a singlelayer of material (e.g., a retroreflective, vinyl-based film, includinga pressure sensitive adhesive, which is disposed on polyethylene-coatedpaper, etc.), a bulk roll of such material is fed to a printing devicefor this purpose. In some other embodiments, backing 212 and layer 324are provided as two separate layers of material. In such embodiments, abulk roll of backing 212 is fed to a printing device, and badging isprinted to the back surface of the backing. A separate roll of layer 324(implemented as vinyl film only, not backing), is laid over the topsurface of backing 212 and adhered thereto.

In task S802-2, layers 212/324 are fed to an ink-printing device toapply layer 326, the licensing-information layer, to layer 324.

FIG. 8C provides an embodiment of a method for accomplishing task S803;that is, incorporating optional features into the basic plate assembly.

In task S803-1, query if a hologram is required. If so, the hologram(i.e., supplemental-information layer 530, including metallized film,FIG. 5A) is installed on layer 326 (ink printing layer) at task S803-2.Query, at task S803-3, whether further holograms are required. If “yes,”install a further hologram on layer 326. If the response to the queriesat tasks S803-1 or S803-3 is “no,” proceed to optional watermarkprocessing, tasks S803-4 to S803-6.

The tasks for optional watermark processing are analogous to those ofoptional hologram processing. Watermarks are applied to layer 326, asdesired, in addition to or as an alternative to holograms. If watermarksare not required, or once they have been applied, proceed to optionalQR-code processing, tasks S803-7 to S803-9.

The tasks for optional QR-code processing are analogous to those ofoptional watermark processing. QR codes are applied to layer 326, asdesired, in addition to or as an alternative to holograms and/orwatermarks. If QR codes are not required, or once they have beenapplied, proceed to ink-printing operations S803-10 and S803-11, tocreate an anti-alteration/barrier layer for layer 326.

In the illustrative embodiment, ink printing, such as with UV-curableink, may be applied if one or more holograms, and/or one or morewatermarks, and/or one or more QR codes have been applied to layer 326,and/or if a requirement exists (e.g., for a mechanical, electrical,design barrier, etc.) for the RFID layer. If neither holograms,watermarks, nor QR codes have been applied, processing proceeds directlyto optional RFID inlay processing, tasks S803-12 through S803-14. Aspreviously noted, if suitable alternatives to UV-curable ink becomeavailable (i.e., provide the requisite functionality and are otherwiseacceptable), such materials may be used in place thereof.

The tasks for RFID-inlay processing (or other communications devices)are analogous to those of hologram, watermark, and QR-code processing(i.e., the same simple looping arrangement of tasks S803-1 throughS803-3). If one or more RFID inlays are applied, UV-curable ink or asuitable alternative may be applied to the layer of RFID inlay(s), pertasks S803-15 through S803-17. As such, if hologram(s), and/orwatermark(s), and/or QR-codes have previously been applied, the inkapplied to the communications layer creates a secondanti-alteration/barrier layer.

After completing task S803, such as by applying one or more optionallayers described via tasks S803-1 through S803-17, or not applying anyoptional layers, proceed to task S804 (FIG. 8A).

FIGS. 9A and 9B depict a sequence of operations by which license plate110 is dry installed at the front of a motor vehicle. For clarity, allvisual indications normally present on plate 110 are not depicted inFIGS. 9A and 9B. It is to be understood that the dry installationoperations presented in these figures and the accompanying descriptionare generally applicable to all embodiments of the license plate 110,unless otherwise indicated.

The dry installation process begins by identifying the desired mountinglocation at the front of vehicle 100. In the illustrative embodiment,plate 110 is to be mounted in the center of region 104. Two pieces oftape 944, etc., are positioned along the desired vertical and horizontalaxes within region 104 (such as, but not necessarily, the horizontal andvertical midpoints thereof), such that the two pieces of tape intersectat the intended location of the center of plate 110 in region 104.

Two additional pieces of tape 946 are adhered to the top oflicense-plate assembly 240 within marginal region 211 in preparation forsecuring plate 110 to vehicle 100.

Plate assembly 240 is then positioned on top of the pieces of tape 944,sighting against alignment indices 416. This ensures that license-plateassembly 240 is level, etc., and positioned as desired. License-plateassembly 240 is adhered to vehicle 100 via tape 946. License-plateassembly 240 is now suspended in place. The two pieces of tape 944 usedfor alignment purposes are removed from the vehicle and discarded.

Next, the bottom corner of plate 110 is peeled back, and peelingcontinues until the bottom 25 to 50 percent of the plate 110, across itsfull width, is pulled away from backing 212. While continuing to suspendthe peeled portion of plate 110 away from vehicle 100, backing 212 isfolded horizontally “back” (i.e., towards vehicle 100), creating crease948 in backing 212.

Next, pressure is applied to the top-center of plate 110, such as via aninstaller's hand, with the continuing application of pressure towardsthe bottom-right of plate 110, ensuring crease 948 in backing 212 isflattened against vehicle 100. Once pressure has been applied to thebottom-right corner of plate 110, continuing pressure is applied toplate moving along the plate towards the bottom-left corner thereof. Anyair bubbles should be pressed out as pressure is applied.

The two pieces of tape 946 are next removed from the top of plateassembly 240, permitting the plate assembly to fall forward and awayfrom vehicle 100. The dry installation continues by peeling backing 212away from plate 110, ensuring that the plate is kept away from vehicle100. This is important since once backing 212 is removed, the adhesiveon the vehicle-facing side of plate 110 is exposed. While keeping plate110 away from vehicle 100, pressure is applied to plate 110, moving fromthe right side of the plate to the left side of the plate over arelatively narrow vertical segment of the plate. After completing apass, index upward, repeating the movement. Pressure is applied in thisfashion until the top of the plate is reached, completing theinstallation process.

It will be appreciated that the pressure may be initially applied movingtoward the bottom left of the plate, such that the subsequent indexedapplication of pressure proceeds in a left side-to-right side (of theplate) fashion.

When installing a plate that includes security scoring 742, plateassembly 240 will include layer 738, which is the (clear) transfer masklayer. In such a case, layer 738 is removed following completion of theinstallation process described above.

In addition to the aforementioned “dry” installation method, plate 110can be installed by a “wet” installation method. In some embodiments,the wet application uses a solution of water and a viscous liquid, suchas baby shampoo (for example, Johnson & Johnson brand Johnson's babyshampoo). A mixture of 2 tablespoons of Johnson's baby shampoo in 32ounces of clean, filtered water has proven to be suitable for thispurpose. For wet installation, the solution is applied to the intendedinstallation location. Once the location of the plate is settledaccording to the method described above, a squeegee is applied to thefront of the plate, working center-outward toward the edges thereof,removing all solution and air bubbles.

FIGS. 10A through 10C, and FIGS. 11A through 11J depict an exemplarymethod for installing plate 110 at the back of a vehicle.

For best aesthetic presentation of plate 110, there must be: (1) asmooth mounting area devoid of holes or anomalies in the surface, and(2) a sufficient amount of such surface area available to mount theplate. There are two primary situations in which these conditions arenot met. The first is encountered when the front end of a vehicle doesnot have enough flat, smooth surface area to provide adequate mountingspace. This situation often arises with many late-model performancevehicles, such as those offered by German luxury brands, whose vehiclesfeature large grills and diminutive bumper areas. A second situation inwhich the aforementioned conditions are not met is at the rear of mostvehicles, regardless of production year or brand. Typically, themanufacturer or dealership has already provided mounting locations(i.e., physical holes) to secure a traditional rigid license plate. Forbest aesthetic results, plate 110 should not be applied directly oversuch holes.

In scenarios in which the aforementioned conditions are not met, plateholder 1050, depicted in FIGS. 10A-10C, is used in conjunction withembodiments of the invention. Plate holder 1050 provides a smooth,obstruction-free mounting surface with adequate space, and its presenceobscures any otherwise visible mounting hardware/fasteners that areprovided with the vehicle, such as to secure a traditional licenseplate.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10A, plate holder 1050 includes fourmounting holes 1054. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10B, plateholder 1050 includes two mounting holes 1054, which is usuallysufficient for securely mounting the plate holder. The mounting holesare counter-bored to permit the head of appropriately configuredfasteners 1056 (typically screws) to be recessed within an upper regionof the bore so that the top surface of fastener 1056 is flush with thesurface of plate holder 1050.

In the illustrative embodiment, plate holder 1050 is slightly (e.g.,about 1/16^(th) of inch, etc.) larger in height and width than plate110. As illustrated in FIG. 10C, this creates buffer zone 1055 betweenthe perimeter of plate 110 and perimeter of plate holder 1050, whichaids in protecting the edges of plate 110. In the illustrativeembodiment, plate holder 1050 has radius corners 1052 of one-half inch,which match the radii found on a traditional vehicular license plate forthe U.S. market. As appropriate, the dimensions of the radius cornerscan be changed to accommodate alternative-sized license plates foundoutside of the U.S. market, such as for the European Union, Asia, or theUAE.

Holder 1050 comprises any hard material that is resonant free, inert,drillable and suitable for processing via a laser cutting bed or CNCmachining. Non-limiting examples of suitable material of constructionfor holder 1050 include cast acrylic, stainless steel, aluminum, brass,titanium, hardwoods such as ipe or teak, composite materials such asglass or fiber infused plastics, carbon fiber, Kevlar, etc.

FIGS. 11A through 11J depict details of an exemplary dry installationmethod for installing plate 110 at the back of a vehicle. For clarity,all visual indications normally present on plate 110 are not depicted inFIGS. 11A-11J. It is to be understood that the installation operationspresented in these figures and the accompanying description aregenerally applicable to all embodiments of the license plate 110, unlessotherwise indicated.

Any existing license-plate hardware present on the back of car 100 isremoved. Per FIGS. 11A and 11B, the openings in plate holder 1050 arealigned with existing mounting-screw holes on the back of vehicle 100.Supplied fasteners 1056 are inserted into plate holder 1050, and anappropriate hand tool is used to screw the fasteners 1056 into thevehicle's existing mounting screw holes, thereby coupling plate holder1050 to the back of vehicle 100. The head of fasteners 1056 should beflush with, or slightly below the surface of plate holder 1050, and mustnot protrude beyond such surface.

The process for installing plate 110 on the rear of a vehicle followsthe same overall process as previously described for dry or wet plateinstallation at the front of the vehicle. More particularly, andreferring now to FIGS. 11C through 11E, a bottom corner of plate 110 ispeeled from backing 212. Peeling is continued until the entire width ofthe bottom half of plate 110 is peeled away from backing 212. Whilecontinuing to horizontally suspend the bottom half of plate 110 awayfrom plate holder 1050, backing 212 is folded horizontally ‘back’ untoitself towards the vehicle, placing hard crease 948 into backing 212.

With reference to FIGS. 11F through 11I, plate 110 is suspended overplate holder 1050, and alignment is verified to ensure that plate 110 isaligned with plate holder 1050. Next, pressure is applied to thetop-center of plate 110, such as via an installer's hand, with thecontinuing application of pressure towards the bottom-right corner ofplate 110, ensuring creased fold 948 in backing 212 is flattened againstholder 1050. Once pressure has been applied to the bottom-right cornerof plate 110, continuing pressure is applied to plate 110, moving alongthe plate towards the bottom-left corner thereof. Any air bubbles shouldbe pressed out as pressure is applied.

Installation continues by peeling backing 212 away from plate 110,ensuring that plate 110 is kept away from plate holder 1050. This isimportant since once backing 212 is removed, the adhesive on thevehicle-facing side of plate 110 is exposed. While keeping plate 110away from plate holder 1050, pressure is applied to plate 110, movingfrom the right side to the left side of the plate over a relativelynarrow vertical segment of the plate. After completing a pass, indexupward, then repeating the movement. Pressure is applied in this fashionuntil the top of the plate is reached, completing the installationprocess.

It will be appreciated that the pressure may be initially applied movingtoward the bottom left of the plate, such that the subsequent indexedapplication of pressure proceeds from the left side of the plate to theright side of the plate. As an alternative to the dry installationprocess discussed above, plate 110 can be wet installed. This isaccomplished using the same methodology as discussed for front plateinstallation.

In some alternative embodiments, plate 110 is configured for placementon the dashboard of vehicle 100, rather than the front of vehicle 100.FIG. 12A depicts plate 1210, which is an embodiment of a plateconfigured for dashboard placement.

Referring now to FIG. 12A, plate 1210, which is suitable for dashboardplacement, comprises plate 110, mounting layer 1260, and surfacetreatment 1264. Mounting layer 1260 is coupled to plate 110 via theadhesive surface of plate 110. Mounting layer 1260 can be flexible,semi-rigid, or rigid. In some embodiments, mounting layer 1260 is asheet of high-density polyethylene, the sheet having a typical thicknessin the range of about 20 to 30 mils (0.02 to 0.03 inches). Sincemounting layer 1260 is “below” plate 110, the mounting layer need not beoptically transparent.

The dimensions of mounting layer 1260 are slightly larger than thedimensions of plate 110 to prevent overhang thereof, which will damageplate 110. In particular, mounting layer 1260 is larger than plate 110by about 1/16 inch in total width and 1/16 inch in total height, thusproviding a margin of about 1/32 inch beyond the perimeter of plate 110.

Surface treatment 1264 provides a relatively high-friction surface, theintent being to decrease the tendency for the plate to slide along thedashboard while the vehicle is in use, while at the same time avoid anydamage (e.g., marring of the finish of the vinyl/leather, etc.) to thedashboard. That is, the surface treatment increases the staticcoefficient of friction (as well as the dynamic coefficient of friction)of mounting layer 1260. Additionally, the surface treatment is notadhesive, so that plate 1210 will not adhere to the dashboard.

In some embodiments, surface treatment 1264 are fibers that are securelyadhered to mounting layer 1260 via an adhesive, such as a pressuresensitive adhesive. If the material serving as mounting layer 1260 doesnot, as supplied, include such an adhesive, it is applied (e.g.,manually, etc.) to the underside of mounting surface 1260.

The fibers selected for use as surface treatment 1264, which may benatural or synthetic, are selected and/or otherwise treated to satisfythe above-mentioned goals. That is, to decrease the tendency for theplate to slide along the dashboard while the vehicle is in use, while atthe same time avoid any damage (e.g., marring of the finish of thevinyl/leather, etc.) to the dashboard. And not having any tendency toadhere to the dashboard. In some of such embodiments, the fibers have asuede-like texture. Alternatively, or in addition to the selection of asuitably textured fiber, a friction enhancer can be applied to thefibers. In some other embodiments, surface treatment 1264 is implementedas materials other than fibers, such as segments of leather, rubber, orother materials that increase the static coefficient of friction of themounting layer 1264.

FIG. 12B depicts method 1200 for fabricating plates suitable fordashboard placement, such as plate 1210. The method begins with afabricated license-plate assembly (i.e., plate and backing), such aslicense-plate assembly 240.

In task S1201, a plate, such as plate 110, is removed from the backing,such as backing 212, of license-plate assembly 240. Proceeding with taskS1202, a mounting layer, such as mounting layer 1260 (FIG. 12A) isapplied to the back (i.e., the adhesive-bearing side adhesive) of plate110.

In task S1203, adhesive is applied to the exposed side of the mountinglayer, to the extent such adhesive is not provided with the as-suppliedmounting surface.

In task S1204, surface treatment 1264 for increasing friction, such asfibers (or the alternative materials mentioned), are applied to theexposed, adhesive-bearing surface that is present after the completionof tasks S1202 and S1203. The fibers, etc., are applied via a mechanicalapplicator.

If required, the adhesive is cured in task S1205, such as by theapplication of pressure for a period of time, as a function of theadhesive. In some embodiments, pressure is applied by placing thesurface-treatment-bearing modified plate between two rigid plates. It iswithin the capabilities of those skilled the art to select anappropriate adhesive and, if the adhesive requires curing, to determineappropriate curing conditions (e.g., the amount of applied pressure,time at pressure, etc.).

It is to be understood that the disclosure describes a few embodimentsand that many variations of the invention can easily be devised by thoseskilled in the art after reading this disclosure and that the scope ofthe present invention is to be determined by the following claims.

For example, various layers structures are defined for each of plates310, 510, and plate 610. However, plates in accordance with the presentteachings having different arrangements of layers than those depictedare contemplated. Consider, for example, license plate 610, whichdiscloses the following arrangement of layers, starting from thebottommost layer: layer 324→licensing information layer326→supplemental-information layer 530→first anti-alteration/barrierlayer 532-1→communications layer 634→second anti-alteration/barrierlayer 532-2→protection layer 328. By way of illustration, in two otherembodiments, license plates in accordance with the present inventionhave the following arrangements of layers:

-   -   layer 324→licensing information layer 326→communications layer        634→anti-alteration/barrier layer 532→protection layer 328.    -   layer 324→licensing information layer 326→first        anti-alteration/barrier layer 532-1→communications layer 634→2nd        anti-alteration/barrier layer 532-2→protection layer 328.        As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in light of        the present teachings, additional arrangements of layers are        possible. For example, the position of certain layers can be        switched, such as, for example, switching the positions in the        “stack” of licensing information layer 326 and communications        layer 634.

What is claimed:
 1. A license-plate assembly comprising: a flexiblelicense plate, the flexible license plate including: (i) aretroreflective film having a first side and a second side, the firstside having a pressure-sensitive adhesive applied thereto, (ii) alicensing-information layer, the licensing-information layer consistingof ink, at least some of which ink is deposited in the form ofalphanumeric characters on the second side of the retroreflective film,the alphanumeric characters providing vehicle license information, and(iii) a protection layer overlying the licensing-information layer andretroreflective film, wherein the protection layer comprises a film thatis optically transparent; a backing having a first side and a secondside, wherein the flexible license plate is disposed on the second sideof the backing, the backing extending beyond a perimeter of the flexiblelicense plate and, in so extending, defining a marginal region; andplural indices disposed within the marginal region, the indices beingsymmetrically spaced about respective horizontal and vertical centerpoints of the flexible license plate, the indices facilitating alignmentof the flexible license plate during installation thereof on a motorvehicle.
 2. The license-plate assembly of claim 1 wherein badgingappears between the plural indices, and wherein badging includes atleast one of the following: branding information, instructionalinformation, and regulatory information.
 3. The license-plate assemblyof claim 1 wherein badging appears on the first side of the backing, andwherein badging includes at least one of the following: brandinginformation, instructional information, and regulatory information. 4.The license-plate assembly of claim 1 wherein the ink is a solvent-basedink.
 5. The license-plate assembly of claim 1 wherein the flexiblelicense plate comprises a supplemental-information layer, wherein thesupplemental information layer is disposed above thelicensing-information layer, wherein the supplemental information layerincludes ink deposited in the form of one or moresupplemental-information-bearing features, including one or moreholograms, and/or one or more watermarks, and/or one or more QR-codes.6. The license-plate assembly of claim 5 wherein the flexible licenseplate includes a first anti-alteration/barrier layer, wherein the firstanti-alteration/barrier layer is disposed on thesupplemental-information layer and comprises optically transparent ink.7. The license-plate assembly of claim 6 wherein the flexible licenseplate includes a communications layer, wherein the communications layeris disposed on the first anti-alteration/barrier layer, and wherein thecommunications layer comprises a wireless communications device.
 8. Thelicense-plate assembly of claim 7 wherein the wireless communicationsdevice comprises an RFID inlay.
 9. The license-plate assembly of claim 7wherein the flexible license plate includes a secondanti-alteration/barrier layer, wherein the secondanti-alteration/barrier layer is disposed on the communications layer,wherein the second anti-alteration/barrier layer comprises opticallytransparent ink.
 10. The license-plate assembly of claim 1 wherein theflexible license plate includes a communications layer, wherein thecommunications layer is disposed on the licensing-information layer, andwherein the communications layer comprises a wireless communicationsdevice.
 11. The license-plate assembly of claim 10 wherein the wirelesscommunications device comprises an RFID inlay.
 12. The license-plateassembly of claim 1 wherein the flexible license plate includes a firstanti-alteration/barrier layer, wherein the first anti-alteration/barrierlayer is disposed on the licensing information layer and comprisesoptically transparent ink.
 13. The license-plate assembly of claim 12wherein the flexible license plate includes a communications layer,wherein the communications layer is disposed on the firstanti-alteration/barrier layer, and wherein the communications layercomprises a wireless communications device.
 14. A license-plate assemblycomprising: a flexible license plate, the flexible license plate havingplural layers, including a licensing-information layer, thelicensing-information layer consisting of ink, at least some of whichink is deposited in the form of alphanumeric characters on an underlyingone of the plural layers, the alphanumeric characters providing licenseinformation; and a backing, wherein the flexible license plate isdisposed on the backing, the backing extending beyond a perimeter of theflexible license plate and, in so extending, defining a marginal region,wherein plural indices are disposed within the marginal region, theindices being symmetrically spaced about respective horizontal andvertical center points of the flexible license plate, the indicesfacilitating alignment of the flexible license plate during installationthereof on a motor vehicle.
 15. The license-plate assembly of claim 14wherein the flexible license plate comprises one or moresupplemental-information-bearing features, including one or moreholograms, and/or one or more watermarks, and/or one or more QR-codes.16. The license-plate assembly of claim 14 wherein the flexible licenseplate comprises a wireless communications device.
 17. A method formaking a license plate assembly, the method comprising: providing aretroreflective film disposed on a backing; printing alphanumericcharacters within a first rectangular region of the retroreflectivefilm, the alphanumeric characters providing vehicle license informationand defining a licensing-information layer; printing indices within asecond region of the retroreflective film, wherein second regionsurrounds the first region; and disposing an optically transparentprotection layer over the licensing-information layer andretroreflective film.
 18. The method of claim 17 comprising cutting theoptically transparent protection layer and the retroreflective film, butnot the backing, along a perimeter of the first rectangular region,thereby defining a license plate in the license plate assembly.
 19. Themethod of claim 18 comprising, prior to disposing the opticallytransparent protection layer, printing at least one or moresupplemental-information-bearing features, including one or moreholograms, and/or one or more watermarks, and/or one or more QR-codes.20. The method of claim 19 comprising, prior to disposing the opticallytransparent protection layer and after ink printing the at least onesupplemental-information-bearing feature, forming a communications layerincluding a wireless communications device.
 21. The method of claim 18comprising, prior to disposing the optically transparent protectionlayer, forming a communications layer including a wirelesscommunications device.
 22. The method of claim 18 comprising: removingthe backing; attaching a mounting layer to the retroreflective film; andapplying a surface treatment to mounting layer, wherein the surfacetreatment increases the static coefficient of friction of the mountinglayer.
 23. A license-plate assembly comprising: a flexible licenseplate, the flexible license plate including: (i) a retroreflective filmhaving a first side and a second side, the first side having apressure-sensitive adhesive applied thereto, (ii) alicensing-information layer, the licensing-information layer consistingof ink, at least some of which ink is deposited in the form ofalphanumeric characters on the second side of the retroreflective film,the alphanumeric characters providing vehicle license information, and(iii) a protection layer overlying the licensing-information layer andretroreflective film, wherein the protection layer comprises a film thatis optically transparent; a mounting layer, wherein the mounting layeris coupled to the first side of the retroreflective film; and a surfacetreatment disposed on the mounting layer, wherein the surface treatmentincreases the static coefficient of friction of the mounting layer.